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Date: 3/17/2021
WEST SPRINGFIELD – The Council on Aging (COA) has resumed its transportation to grocery stores.
“Getting the van back on the road has always been a priority for us. There are just a few stores in the area that will allow for ordering groceries by the phone and using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and coupons over the phone as well. For those patrons who do not use the internet or do not have family or friends who could assist, this made things difficult,” said COA Director Sarah Long.
She added that those who are experiencing food insecurity could not get a ride to the Parish Cupboard to do a grocery pickup.
While transportation was unavailable, Long told Reminder Publishing that the COA decided to assist seniors with shopping and other services by giving them resources and guidance and empowered them to get needed items and services on their own when possible.
The COA wanted people to be able to meet their needs when the staff was unavailable, the van was off the road, and when the center is closed.
“If there was ever a time to strive to be as self-sufficient as possible, this year-long pandemic is it. However, it is important to note that there will always be folks who require a more in-depth level of service, and we are gladly able to assist those individuals at any time,” Long said.
While the van transportation to grocery stores was suspended last March, they resumed rides to medical appointments in May.
Individuals must be 60 years old or older to ride. The van has a wheelchair lift, and most medical devices can be accommodated.
The center’s van driver, Bill Frink, will speak with the client when booking a ride to confirm that they can accommodate their needs.
The van operates Monday through Friday, and the cost to ride is $.50 each way within West Springfield and $1 each way out of town.
Long said that the van has a limited out-of-town service area, but Frink will go over that with people when scheduling a pick-up.
The van picks up individuals from private residences and apartment complexes anywhere in town.
As of right now, the van schedule may change from week-to-week due to COVID-19 restrictions, so people who are interested can call Frink at 495-1802 to find a spot on the schedule.
Long shared that since COVID-19 began, they have been doing everything by phone and internet for the residents. Besides shopping, COA is starting to have minimal in-person appointments for assistance with applications like Fuel Assistance, SNAP, and MassHealth benefits.
“We are also beginning to schedule outside activities for the spring, which we view as a service because it helps individuals stay strong both mentally and physically,” Long said.